Alcor Sensors from Tempest Aero Group
Precision CHT, EGT and TIT Temperature Sensors | PMA/FAA Approved | EU Stock Available
Europe's Premier Alcor Sensor Distributor
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Airpart Supply is a factory-authorized European distributor for Alcor sensors from Tempest Aero Group, offering comprehensive stock availability across the EU for aircraft temperature monitoring systems. For over 50 years, Alcor has led the aviation industry in exhaust gas temperature (EGT), cylinder head temperature (CHT), and turbine inlet temperature (TIT) sensor development. Alcor sensors are compatible with the vast majority of engine monitors, from classic analog instrumentation to current glass panel systems. Alcor products carry PMA/FAA approval and are covered under a blanket Supplemental Type Certificate (STC), making them legal for installation in any aircraft with a reciprocating engine without complicated paperwork. This universal approval allows Alcor sensors to be used in practically any system of like type, including digital indicators and modern engine monitoring systems. European customers benefit from our Dublin-based warehouse, providing faster delivery times, simplified VAT handling, and comprehensive technical support for Cessna, Piper, and Beechcraft aircraft throughout Europe. |
Alcor Temperature Sensor Range
Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) SensorsPrecision Engine Temperature MonitoringAlcor CHT sensors monitor cylinder head temperatures for optimal Lycoming and Continental engine performance. Available in Type J and Type K configurations with bayonet, gasket, and RTD mounting options. Compatible with both analog and digital engine monitoring systems. Applications: Engine monitoring, overheating prevention, leaning procedures, preventive maintenance |
Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) SensorsFuel Economy & Performance OptimizationAlcor EGT thermocouples provide precise exhaust gas temperature readings for accurate mixture control and fuel efficiency. Available in Type K and Type E configurations with clamp, screw-in, and bayonet mounting styles. Essential for proper engine leaning and maximizing range. Benefits: Fuel savings, extended engine life, precise mixture control, increased safety margins |
Turbine Inlet Temperature (TIT) SensorsTurbocharged Engine ProtectionAlcor TIT sensors monitor turbine inlet temperatures on turbocharged and turbo-normalized engines, preventing costly turbine damage. Type K thermocouples with various mounting configurations ensure compatibility with popular turbocharger installations on general aviation aircraft. Protection: Turbocharger longevity, temperature limit monitoring, system health indication |
Understanding Alcor Thermocouple Technology
Thermocouple Types Explained
Type J Thermocouples (CHT Applications)
Type J sensors are commonly identified by yellow negative and black positive wires, though some manufacturers use red/white or red/black combinations. These thermocouples are primarily used for cylinder head temperature monitoring, offering reliable performance in the temperature ranges typical of reciprocating aircraft engines. Type J is the industry standard for analog CHT indicators.
Type K Thermocouples (EGT/TIT Standard)
Type K is the industry standard for EGT and TIT applications, identified by red negative and yellow positive wires. Type K sensors can also be specified for use in digital and amplified CHT indicators on modern glass panel installations. Alcor Type K thermocouples are available in both grounded and ungrounded configurations depending on system requirements.
Type E Thermocouples (Legacy Systems)
Type E thermocouples feature red negative and brown positive wires and are constructed with chromel and constantan metals. Type E represents older technology that produces twice the millivolts of Type K systems. Type E and Type K components should not be mixed within the same system.
Mounting Configurations
Bayonet MountBayonet-style thermocouples insert directly into specially threaded receptors in aircraft cylinders. This mounting method provides secure installation and reliable thermal contact for accurate temperature readings on certified aircraft installations. |
Gasket StyleGasket-style thermocouples are available for CHT in Type J configuration. The 18mm adapter fits all standard aviation spark plugs from Tempest and other manufacturers. This configuration is used on engines not equipped with threaded receptors. |
Screw-In MountScrew-in EGT/TIT sensors are available in 1/4 inch NPT, 1/8 inch NPT, and 7/16-20 thread configurations. These sensors install directly into exhaust stacks or turbocharger housings, providing accurate exhaust gas temperature monitoring. |
Clamp MountClamp-style sensors accommodate various exhaust pipe diameters with configurations for 2.35 inch maximum, 3-1/4 inch maximum, and 3-3/8 inch maximum clamp ranges. Clamp sensors offer installation flexibility on experimental and certified aircraft. |
Grounded vs Ungrounded Sensors
Grounded thermocouples have wires in the element welded to each other and the sheath, creating electrical continuity. Grounded thermocouples are the most commonly used in reciprocating aircraft and offer faster response times. Alcor provides an industry-leading five-year warranty on grounded thermocouples.
Ungrounded thermocouples isolate the thermocouple junction from the sheath, providing electrical isolation when required by specific engine monitoring systems. These are typically specified for certain digital engine analyzers that require isolated inputs to prevent ground loops.
Popular Alcor Sensor Part Numbers in Stock
CHT Thermocouple Sensors
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86146 - CHT RTD Bayonet Resistance Thermistor Device (RTD) bayonet mount, 57 Ohm resistance. Identical specifications to AN5546-1. RTD sensors measure resistance rather than millivolts, functioning as precision ohm meters for accurate CHT readings. |
86202 - CHT Type J Gasket 18mm Type J thermocouple with black and yellow wires. Gasket-style mounting for 18mm spark plugs. Grounded junction with normal stagger configuration. Resistance: 0.13 + 0.16 Ω - 0.05 Ω. Weight: 0.12 lbs. |
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86251 - CHT Type J Bayonet Type J bayonet mount with black and yellow wiring. Grounded thermocouple, normal stagger. Resistance: 0.24 ± 0.05 Ω. Standard configuration for analog CHT systems on Lycoming and Continental engines. |
86253 - CHT Type K Bayonet (3/8-24) Type K bayonet sensor with 3/8-24 thread. Resistance: 0.65 ± 0.10 Ω. Compatible with digital engine monitors and modern glass panel CHT systems requiring Type K inputs. |
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86252 - CHT Type K Bayonet Reverse Stagger Type K with red and yellow wires. Bayonet mount with reverse stagger configuration. Grounded thermocouple. Resistance: 0.66 ± 0.10 Ω. Specified for certain engine installations requiring reverse stagger timing. |
EGT/TIT Thermocouple Sensors
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86143 - EGT Type K 1/4" NPT Type K screw-in with 1/4 inch NPT threads. Red and yellow wiring. Grounded, normal stagger. Resistance: 0.89 ± 0.10 Ω. Standard EGT probe for most general aviation installations. |
86159 - EGT Type K 1/4" NPT Reverse Type K screw-in, 1/4 inch NPT, reverse stagger configuration. Grounded thermocouple. Resistance: 0.70 ± 0.10 Ω. Used on engines requiring reverse probe timing for accurate temperature readings. |
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86240 - EGT Type K 7/16-20 Type K screw-in with 7/16-20 thread. Grounded, normal stagger. Resistance: 0.80 ± 0.10 Ω. Common on Continental turbo applications and various exhaust systems. |
86160 - EGT Type K 7/16-20 Reverse Type K, 7/16-20 threads, reverse stagger. Grounded configuration. Resistance: 0.70 ± 0.10 Ω. Specified for engines requiring reverse stagger probe arrangement. |
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86281 - EGT Type K Clamp 3-1/4" Max Type K clamp-style for exhaust pipes up to 3-1/4 inch diameter. Grounded, normal stagger. Resistance: 0.85 ± 0.10 Ω. Versatile mounting for experimental and certificated installations. |
86255 - EGT Type K Clamp 3-3/8" Max Type K clamp for 1-1/8 inch to 3-3/8 inch exhaust pipes. Grounded, normal stagger. Resistance: 0.80 ± 0.10 Ω. Adjustable clamp accommodates various exhaust configurations. |
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86307 - EGT Type K 1/4" NPT Ungrounded Type K, 1/4 inch NPT, ungrounded configuration. Resistance: 0.71 ± 0.03 Ω. Required for specific digital engine analyzers needing electrical isolation to prevent ground loops. |
86308 - TIT Type K 7/16-20 Ungrounded Type K turbine inlet temperature probe, 7/16-20 threads. Ungrounded junction. Resistance: 0.71 ± 0.03 Ω. Essential for turbocharger temperature monitoring on Continental and Lycoming turbo engines. |
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86341 - EGT Type K 1/8" NPT Ungrounded Type K with 1/8 inch NPT threads. Ungrounded, normal stagger. Resistance: 0.94 ± 0.10 Ω. Smaller thread size for installations with limited space or specific port requirements. |
86153 - EGT Type E 1/4" NPT Type E screw-in with red and brown wires. Grounded, normal stagger. Resistance: 0.97 ± 0.15 Ω. For legacy analog EGT systems requiring Type E thermocouples. Not for mixing with Type K components. |
Alcor Sensor Compatibility & Applications
Engine Monitoring System Compatibility
Alcor sensors are compatible with engine monitoring systems from all major manufacturers. The blanket PMA/STC approval allows installation in practically any aircraft with a reciprocating engine, eliminating complicated certification paperwork. Alcor thermocouples work seamlessly with:
- Classic Analog Indicators - Traditional gauge-style instruments with mechanical movements and thermocouple inputs
- Digital Engine Analyzers - Multi-cylinder monitoring systems providing individual cylinder temperature data
- Glass Panel Systems - Integrated avionics suites including Garmin G3X, Dynon SkyView, and Aspen Evolution displays
- Portable Engine Monitors - Removable monitoring devices for aircraft without factory-installed systems
- Primary Flight Displays - Modern EFIS installations incorporating engine parameters
Aircraft Engine Applications
Alcor sensors are installed on thousands of general aviation aircraft worldwide, providing reliable temperature monitoring for proper engine management. Common applications include:
Lycoming EnginesO-235, O-320, O-360, IO-360, O-540, IO-540, TIO-540, and other Lycoming engine models installed in Cessna, Piper, Beechcraft, Mooney, Cirrus, and experimental aircraft. Alcor sensors replace original equipment thermocouples and upgrade older analog systems. |
Continental EnginesC-85, O-200, IO-360, IO-520, IO-550, TSIO-520, TSIO-550, and other Continental powerplants. Alcor TIT sensors are particularly important for turbocharged Continental engines to monitor turbocharger inlet temperatures and prevent damage from over-temperature conditions. |
Experimental AircraftAlcor sensors are widely used in homebuilt aircraft including Van's RV series, Lancair, Glasair, Zenith, and kit aircraft. The universal PMA approval and variety of mounting configurations make Alcor ideal for custom engine installations. |
Rotax EnginesRotax 912, 914, and 915 series engines benefit from Alcor CHT and EGT monitoring for proper cooling system management and leaning procedures. Clamp-style sensors accommodate Rotax exhaust configurations. |
Installation Guidance
On new installations, Alcor recommends installing the temperature probe in the same location as the factory-installed system. For horizontally opposed engines, install on the rear cylinder. For radial engines, install on the number one cylinder. If unsure, conduct several similar test flights changing thermocouple locations between flights to select the hottest cylinder. That cylinder should remain the hottest unless airflow is altered due to cooling problems such as air baffling leaks or the cylinder running excessively lean.
Installation must be performed by an appropriately licensed aircraft mechanic in accordance with applicable regulations. Alcor provides detailed installation instructions with each sensor, including proper torque specifications, wire routing guidelines, and connector terminal information.
Complete Your Engine Monitoring System
Tempest Spark PlugsComplete your Tempest engine accessories package with premium aviation spark plugs. Fine-wire and massive electrode designs for Lycoming and Continental engines. EU stock available for fast delivery. |
Tempest Oil FiltersProtect your engine investment with Tempest premium oil filtration. Superior particle retention and flow characteristics for all popular aircraft engines. Stocked in Dublin for European customers. |
Tempest AccessoriesBrowse the complete Tempest Aero Group product range including ignition components, engine accessories, and maintenance supplies for general aviation aircraft throughout Europe. |
Why Choose Alcor Sensors from Airpart Supply
Proven Reliability & Industry Leadership
- Over 50 years of aviation temperature sensor development makes Alcor the industry's most experienced thermocouple manufacturer
- Recommended by leading OEMs - Aircraft manufacturers and engine monitor companies specify Alcor sensors for superior accuracy and reliability
- Five-year warranty on grounded thermocouples demonstrates Alcor's confidence in product quality and longevity
- PMA/FAA approved with blanket STC - Installation in any aircraft with reciprocating engine without complicated paperwork or field approvals
European Stock & Support Advantages
- EU warehouse in Dublin, Ireland providing faster delivery to European customers compared to US-based suppliers
- No customs delays or import duties - All sensors stocked within the European Union for seamless ordering
- VAT-inclusive pricing and simplified paperwork for EU-based aviation businesses and private owners
- Technical support from experienced aviation professionals familiar with European aircraft installations and regulations
- Comprehensive stock of popular part numbers for Cessna, Piper, Beechcraft, and experimental aircraft
Aircraft Safety & Performance Benefits
- Enhanced engine monitoring allows early detection of cylinder problems, cooling issues, and fuel mixture problems before they become expensive repairs
- Fuel savings through precise leaning - Accurate EGT readings enable proper mixture control, potentially saving significant fuel costs over 100 hours of operation
- Extended engine life by monitoring and maintaining proper operating temperatures, preventing destructive over-temperature and over-cooling conditions
- Increased safety margins through continuous temperature awareness during all phases of flight
- Compliance with modern engine monitoring requirements for insurance, operational specifications, and best practices
Installation & Service Support
- Complete installation kits available including sensors, wiring, connectors, and detailed instructions
- Direct replacement for existing sensors - Alcor sensors are designed as drop-in replacements for factory thermocouples
- Technical documentation provided with torque specifications, wire routing guidance, and system compatibility information
- Application engineering support to help select correct sensor types and mounting configurations for specific installations
- Complementary product availability - Complete your order with hardware, safety wire, and other installation materials
Order Alcor Sensors for Your European Aircraft
Factory-authorized European distributor for Alcor from Tempest Aero Group. Comprehensive stock in Dublin, Ireland for fast delivery throughout the EU.
Contact our technical sales team for sensor selection assistance, pricing, and availability.
Phone: +44 (0)1494 450366 | Email: [email protected]








